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Brass Keys
Health Hazards:
Many brass keys contain lead in their alloys, and
traces (often present on the surface) can pass from your hands
to your mouth if you are careless. Obviously keys are not safe
toys for young kids or babies, though many have a fascination
for playing with key rings full of keys. Don't
allow it, especially as a quick and easy pacifier.
How to Avoid or Minimize Exposure:
Alternatives include aluminum keys, and nickel/silver keys
that contain less lead than brass. Have spare keys made of
something else. Plastic covers on the heads of keys may help
minimize lead exposures. Wash your hands after handling brass
keys. As a result of a lawsuit brought by the State of
California and the Mateel Environmental Justice Foundation
under California’s Proposition 65,
the major key manufacturers have agreed to reduce the lead
content of their brass and nickel-silver keys.
Links to Related Resources
ERF
Chemical Fact Sheet for Lead
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